Peter Rufai, former Super Eagles captain and legendary goalkeeper famously known as Dodo Mayana, has died at the age of 61. According to close associates, he passed away early yesterday morning at his home in Idimu, Lagos, after battling a prolonged illness.

Rufai, who was a towering figure between the posts for both club and country, had been out of public view for some time due to health challenges. His body has since been moved to a mortuary, his associates confirmed.

Over a distinguished 20-year career, Rufai guarded goalposts across Nigeria, Benin Republic, Belgium, the Netherlands, Portugal, and Spain. He proudly represented Nigeria in two FIFA World Cup tournaments and multiple Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) competitions, with the crowning moment being the Super Eagles’ historic triumph at the 1994 AFCON in Tunisia.

Born in Lagos, Rufai began his football journey with Stationery Stores F.C. and also featured for Femo Scorpions before moving to Benin Republic in 1986 to join AS Dragons FC de l’Ouémé.

He later moved to Europe, spending six years in Belgium, where he played for K.S.C. Lokeren and K.S.K. Beveren. In the 1993–94 season, he signed with Dutch club Go Ahead Eagles before moving to Portugal with S.C. Farense. In his debut season, he played a key role in helping the club concede just 38 goals in 34 matches — a performance that helped them qualify for the UEFA Cup for the first time in their history.

Rufai’s consistency and reliability earned him a move to Spain, where he featured for Hércules CF and Deportivo de La Coruña, before returning to Portugal to play for Gil Vicente FC.

After retiring from active football, Rufai returned to Nigeria and established a football academy, mentoring young talents. He also ventured into sports marketing, representing several prominent brands.

His legacy extends to his family, with his son Senbaty Rufai briefly following in his footsteps as a professional footballer. Senbaty played as a midfielder and had a stint with Sunshine Stars of Akure in the Nigeria Premier League.

Peter Rufai remains a revered figure in Nigerian football history, remembered not just for his skill and leadership on the field, but also for his contributions to developing the next generation of players.